Frank Christian
Manchester United is reportedly on the verge of finalizing a significant transfer for Bryan Mbeumo, but they may need to prepare for a brief absence from him at the start of the season.
The timing of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) poses a potential dilemma for Ruben Amorim as the transfer approaches.
Mbeumo stands out as a leading player for Cameroon and is anticipated to play a crucial role in AFCON 2025.
The tournament is set to commence on December 21 and conclude on January 18, coinciding with the hectic festive schedule of the Premier League. Should he be selected for the final team, United could be missing him for up to six matches during that period.
This poses a significant challenge for a club aiming to recover from their lowest scoring season in years. Mbeumo, who scored 20 goals last season, is seen as a vital asset in Amorim’s strategy for rebuilding the squad.
He has expressed a strong interest in joining Old Trafford, even with interest from Tottenham lurking in the background.
Which matches might Bryan Mbeumo be unavailable for?
United’s initial bid of approximately £45 million, plus add-ons, has already been turned down, as Brentford is seeking closer to £60 million. However, the financial aspect isn’t the only consideration—timing is equally significant.
If Cameroon advances past the group phase, Mbeumo will likely miss important fixtures against Aston Villa, Newcastle, Wolves, Leeds, Burnley, and potentially Manchester City. It would be unfortunate for him to depart just ahead of the Manchester Derby.
Marc Brys’s team is scheduled for group matches on December 24, 28, and 31. The knockout phase begins shortly after, meaning a deep run in the tournament could sideline Mbeumo for almost a month.
He’s not the only one facing potential unavailability—Andre Onana, Amad Diallo, and Noussair Mazraoui might also miss games.
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